What does liturgically mean?
Liturgically is an adverb meaning in accordance with the prescribed forms and principles of public worship. It is especially used in relation to Christian services, where the order, language, music, gestures, and other practices of a liturgy are carefully organized. Saying that a text or action is used liturgically indicates that it has a defined role within a formal pattern of worship rather than being improvised or purely personal. The word comes from “liturgical,” an adjective derived from “liturgy,” and is most often encountered in theological, historical, and ecclesiastical writing. Because its meaning is specific and somewhat specialized, it is less common in everyday speech than more general alternatives such as “ritually” or “ceremonially.”
adverbIn accordance with the prescribed forms, customs, or principles of public worship; in a manner characteristic of liturgical worship.
- In accordance with the forms, order, or customs of liturgical worship.
"The text was arranged so that it could be sung liturgically during the service."
"The ancient prayers are still used liturgically in many Christian traditions."
"The committee considered how the new translation should function liturgically."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does liturgically come from?
The word derives from “liturgical,” which comes from “liturgy.” “Liturgy” was borrowed from Medieval Latin from Greek leitourgia, meaning “public service” or “service performed on behalf of the public.” The Greek term combines the people’s work, public service, and related religious senses, reflecting the idea of an official communal act of worship.
Related word forms
How liturgically is actually used
A formal and relatively uncommon word, used especially in discussions of worship, religious practice, and the structure of Christian liturgies.